Mastgehäuser

Mastgehäuser, also known as mast houses or mast cells, are specialized cells found in the connective tissue of various organs, including the skin, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. They play a crucial role in the body's immune response, particularly in the defense against parasites such as helminths. Mast cells are named for their characteristic shape, which resembles a mast or a crossbow, with a central nucleus and numerous granules containing preformed mediators.

These mediators, including histamine, heparin, and various cytokines, are rapidly released upon activation of the mast cell. This activation can occur through various mechanisms, including the binding of specific antibodies to the cell surface, the release of cytokines from other immune cells, or the interaction with certain types of parasites. The release of mediators from mast cells leads to the recruitment of other immune cells, the production of inflammatory cytokines, and the modulation of vascular permeability, all of which contribute to the body's response to infection.

Mast cells are also involved in allergic reactions. When an individual is exposed to an allergen, such as pollen or dust mites, the allergen can cross-link specific antibodies on the surface of mast cells, leading to their activation and the release of mediators. This process is a key component of the body's response to allergens and is responsible for the symptoms of allergic reactions, including itching, swelling, and inflammation.

In addition to their role in the immune response, mast cells have been implicated in various other physiological processes, including wound healing, tissue repair, and the regulation of vascular tone. Their precise functions and mechanisms of activation continue to be areas of active research in immunology.